for thousands of others living along the shore and also in sandy's path, the return to home is not yet an option. in seaside heights, new jersey, long lines and a flood of emotions for residents returning to grab what they can for the few hours they had escorted in by bus. >> like a horror movie to me. >> reporter: the damaged beach side communities and homes still off limits. >> we will not allow people on the island until it's safe. >> reporter: homeowner bill doogie collected suitcases and waits on the fate of the home. >> i can't do anything to my house until i'm allowed to come back. mold will set in, more damage will occur. if i'm not allowed to come back for six months to rebuild, you might as well tear the house down. >> reporter: just south long beach island residents were allowed to return to their homes for good. >> this is a major disaster. >> reporter: along new jersey's battered shore there are painful reminders. recovery is a long way off. >> this is our katrina. >> reporter: in new jersey and new york more than 4,000 residents are staying in shelters. nearly a quarter o